Medium access control with software -and hardware- based components in a wireless network
US7461164B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 7, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 2, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 7, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02D30/70
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A MAC architecture for WLAN stations partitions functionality between a software-based MAC component and a hardware-based MAC component that work together to balance function and performance. In general, the fulcrum for this balance centers on timing requirements. Accordingly, the hardware-based MAC component is designed to handle many of the functions that are processor-intensive and/or must be performed under strict timing constraints. The software-based MAC component is designed to handle many of the functions that are memory-intensive, but present more lenient timing requirements. The software-based MAC component may be configured to provide an efficient and robust interface to the hardware-based MAC component. In particular, the software-based MAC component may format and prioritize packets to be sent over the air interface, and generate a command structure that provides instructions for the hardware-based MAC component to process the packet.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.